Bhubaneswar, Nov 8: Chhath Puja has officially concluded with the offering of 'Arghya' to the rising sun by devotees. Thousands of worshippers participated in the rituals, expressing their gratitude and devotion to the Sun God, seeking the fulfillment of their wishes.
In Bhubaneswar, the worshippers gathered at various locations in the capital, including New Bali Yatra Ground, Mancheswar, Kuakhai River, Tankapani Road, and near Pandra High-Tech Hospital.
Payal Jyoti, clad in a traditional saree, led her family in the rituals, preparing offerings of Thekua, fruits, and flowers. With a calm expression, she offered prayers while standing in the water, symbolizing the deep-rooted traditions that she has cherished for years. Beside her, her son held the bamboo basket filled with offerings, filled with excitement and reverence for their first complete participation in the ceremony. Together, they embodied the spirit of the festival, reflecting a beautiful blend of tradition and modernity, as families gathered to celebrate this auspicious occasion.
The festivities commenced on Nov 5 on the Chaturthi Tithi of Kartik Shukla Paksha. Devotees observed the festival with dedication, offering prayers to the Sun God and Chhath Mata, emphasizing the values of faith, tradition, and community.
On the first day, known as Chaturthi, devotees took bath in rivers or ponds, followed by the offering of traditional dishes ‘Kaddu Anna’, which were consumed as prasad after prayer. The second day (Panchami), called ‘Khara Anna’, featured the preparation of sweets and offerings of kheer and chapati, followed by breaking the fast in the evening.
On the third day, known as Shashti, devotees offered prayers to the Sun before sunrise, often gathering at riverbanks and ponds. This year, the devotees were seen along the banks, performing the rituals with great enthusiasm. Women, in particular, prayed for the well-being of their families while offering arghya to the setting Sun.
During the evening prayers, women offered various fruits and flowers to the setting Sun while submerged in water. The festival commenced with a bath on the first day and concluded with Usha Arghya on the last day. Meals during the festival were prepared without onions and garlic, and traditional dishes like kheer were made. Families gathered to observe the fast together, reinforcing their bonds and communal spirit.
